Middle Childhood Education Program Highlights
The Middle Childhood Education (4-9) program at Mount Vernon Nazarene University emphasizes extensive hands-on field experience beginning early in the program. Students are placed in real classroom settings where they observe experienced teachers, assist with instruction, and gradually take on teaching responsibilities of their own. These experiences in local schools help candidates build effective teaching strategies, strengthen classroom management skills, and develop meaningful connections with students and educators, all while building a strong professional résumé for future employment
At MVNU, faith is intentionally woven into every aspect of the Middle Childhood Education program. Students are encouraged to view teaching as a calling, with Christian principles guiding their approach to instruction, relationships, and decision-making in the classroom. Through prayer, Scripture reflection, and discussion of ethical and real-world issues, candidates are prepared not only to become skilled educators but also Christ-centered mentors who positively influence the lives of their students.
Our travel and study-afar programs let you grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Through serving in communities across the U.S. or abroad, you’ll deepen your compassion, explore your callings, and gain meaningful experience for your résumé.
Why Choose MVNU
Students in the Middle Childhood Education program at MVNU can expect a well-rounded academic and practical experience designed to prepare them for teaching grades 4-9 in two content areas such as math, science, language arts, or social studies. The program blends coursework in teaching methods and adolescent development with progressive field experiences and student teaching. Graduates leave fully prepared for initial licensure and equipped to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of middle-level learners in today’s classrooms
Course Descriptions
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Financial Aid & Costs
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Student Support
The Center for Student Success helps you build skills and succeed academically.
Meet Our Education Faculty
Professors in the Education Department at MVNU are knowledgeable and experienced educators who actively engage with students throughout their academic journey and classroom preparation. Faculty members bring valuable experience from real educational settings and remain connected to current practices and developments in the field of education to help students grow into effective, compassionate teachers.
Hands-On Learning in the Campus Preschool
Gain real-world classroom experience by working directly with children in MVNU’s on-campus preschool setting.
Students in MVNU’s Education Department gain valuable hands-on experience by working directly with children at the on-campus Esther Jetter Preschool, a unique lab school environment designed to connect classroom learning with real-world practice. Through observation, lesson planning, guided instruction, and daily interaction with preschoolers, students develop practical teaching skills and confidence from the very beginning of their program. These early field experiences allow future educators to apply current educational practices in a supportive, Christ-centered setting while building meaningful relationships with children and families.
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What Can You Do With A Middle Childhood Education Degree?
A Middle Childhood Education degree from MVNU will prepare you to teach grades 4-9 in your two content areas. An endorsement is also available that will enable you to teach grades 4-6 in a self-contained classroom.
- Classroom teacher in grades 4-9 general education or special education settings, including in-person and online instruction
- Educator in public school systems implementing curriculum and supporting student achievement
- Teacher in private school environments developing engaging and individualized learning strategies
- Instructor in charter schools with opportunities for innovative and customized curriculum design
- Educator in religious school settings integrating faith-based learning into the classroom
MVNU has a strong reputation for putting out qualified, savvy, and caring Education graduates. Employers know that we exceed the number of field hours required for licensure by the state of Ohio — because of that reputation, our grads are always in high demand.
Did you know MVNU offers online degree programs? After graduating with your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education with a 100% online master’s program.
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